Why You Shouldn’t Compromise on a Used Mobility Conversion Van

A mobility conversion van gives you the freedom to move around and live a more independent lifestyle. The ability to go whenever and wherever you want that most non-disabled people take for granted. And although it may be tempting to save money on a used van, it may not give you the same mobility experience as a new wheelchair van. This is because conversion vans are customized to meet the mobility needs of each wheelchair user. So, buying a used mobility van means
you’re buying something that was outfitted for someone else.

Mobility Features

When you buy a used conversion van you’re stuck with the mobility features it has (or doesn’t have). There may be less room in the van for other passengers like your family and friends. The wheelchair lift may not function well or fit your wheelchair properly making it difficult to enter and exit the vehicle. Since the vehicle was customized for someone else’s mobility needs, you may not feel as comfortable either as a driver or a passenger.

Maintenance

Since maintenance and repair costs are higher on used vehicles, you could end up spending more time in the repair shop and less time on the road than you would like. Also, there may be excessive mileage and you will inherit any issues the van may already have. This alone is worth the extra cost of buying a new conversion van.

Safety

Even if the used vehicle is mechanically sound it could have prior damage or wear and tear that may reduce the level of safety. Also, the vehicle may not have been originally converted for wheelchair use by a mobility dealer. For the safety of you and your passengers, it is best to purchase a wheelchair conversion from a special needs mobility dealer that has crash-tested its vans and meets or exceeds all federal highway safety standards and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.
Often the cost difference between a used and new conversion van is not as great as you may believe. Also, there are a variety of ways to save money on a new van and still get all the mobility features you desire. For example, buying a conversion van with a manual wheelchair lift is less expensive than a motorized lift and it is just as easy to use. Plus, mobility conversion dealers have a variety of financing and payment options available that can help make your mobility conversion van a reality.

Side Entry Vs. Rear Entry Mobility Vans

There are basically two options for entering and exiting mobility vans: side entry or rear entry. While both are good options, most users will find that rear entry mobility vans are a more desirable option. This is because rear entry ramps offer a variety of advantages which are not available with a side entry ramp. Below you will learn a bit more about these unique benefits so that you can decide which option is right for your mobility needs.

Allows Mid-Row Passengers

With a side entry ramp, you will lose the second or middle row of seating in the van to accommodate wheelchair access. This can be a serious issue if you routinely transport other passengers who do not require the use of a wheelchair.

With a rear entry ramp, you will never need to worry about the side door being blocked allowing you to maintain that second row passenger seating. This means easier access for everyone.

It Is Easier to Park

Side entry ramps require you to have a considerable amount of clearance on the side of your van for the wheelchair lift. Also, when the side entry is blocked by a vehicle that parks too close to the van you will have to wait until the owner arrives and moves the vehicle so you can get in (or out) of your van. This can make it difficult to park in parking lots where vehicles are rather close together, even in handicap zones.

A rear entry ramp does not require that additional space in order to operate properly. You can enter and exit the wheelchair van without fear of the entry being blocked. This takes the headache out of parking when going to the doctor’s office, visiting local retailers and friends, or simply running errands.

Offers More Ground Clearance and Wider Ramps

Many wheelchair users may find that side entry ramps simply do not offer a high enough ground clearance to meet their special needs. This is not the case with rear entry ramps as they are positioned much higher off the ground, therefore allowing for maximum clearance and wider wheelchair ramps. Also, a wider entrance makes it easier for those who use a conversion van to haul motorcycles, ATV’s, camping gear, and other heavy equipment or bulky items. This provides maximum flexibility and convenience for both mobility and commercial conversion van users.